Foods That Aid Oral Health

CarrotLast time we talk about the five steps to tooth restoration. Today dental implants Stratford, CT provider Dr. Hoos and the rest of his staff want to talk about something a little more tasty.

We’re talking food here, people, and which ones are the best for your oral health. So let’s take a look at some of the most popular food groups and find out what they do for your oral health.

Eat to Improve Oral Health

When it comes to your mouth, there are plenty of food that you can eat which will help to improve your oral health. Many people do not realize just how much the foods they eat on a day to day basis can affect their overall oral health in one way or another.

For instance, dairy products actually give your teeth a little boost due to the high level of calcium they contain. Calcium in known to promote strong teeth and bones. Drinking a glass of 2% milk each day could help strengthen not only your teeth but your bones as well. What’s not to love about that?

However, most people are shocked by this next fact.

Fresh Fruits and Veggies Fight For Your Teeth

No, we’re not taking this as an opportunity to lecture you about your eating habits. When we mention eating more fruits and veggies, in this instance, we are doing so strictly with the health of your teeth in mind. Fruits and veggies contain something called fiber. Fiber is a natural facilitator for the production of saliva in your mouth. Saliva happens to be your mouth’s natural defense against bacteria. When your mouth has a healthy amount of saliva in it, that saliva does something amazing to bacteria. It has the ability to keep portions of bacteria suspended in a type of liquid prison.

Something amazing happens to that bacteria once it is trapped in your saliva.

You swallow.

That might not seem that incredible, but the brilliance of it is in its mundanity. When you swallow the portions of trapped bacteria are then sent down into your digestive tract, where they can be properly and effectively dealt with. As it happens, your intestines are much better at handling bacteria than your teeth and gums are.

Right on, science!

So, Which Fruits and Veggies Do it Best?

At this point, you may be wondering which fruits and veggies are the best for your oral health. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We came bearing a list. Take it with you on your next grocery shopping trip to turn your fridge into a healthy teeth haven.

The Most Fiber Rich Fruits and Veggies

  • Artichokes: 10.3 grams per medium vegetable, cooked.
  • Peas: 8.8 grams per cup, cooked.
  • Broccoli: 5.1 grams per cup, boiled.
  • Brussels Sprouts: 4.1 grams per cup, boiled.
  • Raspberries: 8 grams per cup, raw.
  • Blackberries: 7.6 grams per cup, raw.
  • Avocados: 6.7 grams per half, raw.
  • Pears: 5.5 grams per medium fruit, raw.

Until next time readers, eat some veggies and keep smiling.